This book, first published in 1988, is a comprehensive reference of the laws and practice relating to trade between China and the rest of the world, at a time when the country had only recently opened its markets to foreigners. It shows how China wished to develop foreign trade, the methods it used to do this, and the means by which it attempted to control foreign access at the same time as moving to an increasing openness.

This reference outlines the regulations governing customs and duties; banking, foreign exchange and joint venture; oil and other energy sources; and trademarks. It will be useful for individuals and corporations who have or are considering business involvement in the PRC.

China has developed a piecemeal pattern of regulating foreign investment since the end of 1970s. The latest law is the Foreign Investment Law (FIL), which became effective on 1 January 2020. The groundbreaking new FIL is well acknowledged for its promises and affirmations pledged to investors, signalling China’s eagerness to improve its investment environment and regain momentum for investment growth. This book provides an updated and holistic understanding of the key features of the regulatory regime on foreign investment in China with critical analysis of laws and their implementation. It also examines sensitive and complex legal issues relevant to foreign investment beyond the 2020 FIL and new developments on foreign-related dispute settlement. The book uses cases of success and failure to illustrate the nuances and differences between law and practice regarding foreign investment. Considering China’s magnitude in the global economy and the weighty role of the regulatory system on foreign investment in China, this book is of great interest to a wide range of audience including academics in the field of investment law, legal practitioners, policymakers, and master's students in law and in management.